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AC Power Loss Formula (3-Phase):
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AC Power Loss refers to the electrical energy dissipated as heat in transmission lines and conductors due to resistance. In 3-phase systems, this loss is calculated using the formula P_loss = 3 I² R, where I is current and R is resistance.
The calculator uses the 3-phase AC power loss formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the total power loss across all three phases in a balanced 3-phase AC system, where I²R represents the power loss per phase.
Details: Calculating power loss is essential for designing efficient electrical systems, optimizing energy transmission, reducing operational costs, and ensuring proper sizing of conductors and protection devices.
Tips: Enter current in amperes and resistance in ohms. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the total 3-phase power loss in watts.
Q1: Why is there a factor of 3 in the formula?
A: The factor of 3 accounts for the three phases in a balanced 3-phase system, where each phase contributes equally to the total power loss.
Q2: Is this formula applicable to single-phase systems?
A: No, for single-phase systems the formula is P_loss = 2 I² R (accounting for both line and neutral conductors).
Q3: What factors affect line resistance?
A: Resistance depends on conductor material, cross-sectional area, length, and temperature. Copper has lower resistance than aluminum for the same size.
Q4: How can power loss be minimized?
A: Use larger conductor sizes, higher voltage transmission, improved conductor materials, and proper system balancing to reduce current flow.
Q5: Does this calculation include reactive power losses?
A: No, this formula calculates only resistive (real power) losses. Reactive power losses due to inductance and capacitance require additional calculations.